Even worse has been their inability to overcome the pressure, the nerves and the intensity that come with one-off, big-time, do-or-die games.

That’s what the Cup does for clubs on the rise. It prepares them for massive occasions. It did the trick for Man City in 2010, worked for United in the early 90s and again in 2004 – after which they won three of next four league titles.

And it has been damned useful for Wigan too. Apart from beating Man City in last year’s final, the Latics have combined this season’s defence with a charge for the play-offs.

But then Uwe Rosler would never discard the Cup. Inventive and intelligent, the German has traits that made Wenger so refreshing – and dominant.

Only time will tell if his side’s dramatic comeback from the brink last night will get Wenger’s mojo firing for another few years – or prove to be no more than one last glorious fling.